Each year, on the 10th of February, the world observes and celebrates World Pulses Day. This day is honored and recognized by the United Nations.

Over the past years, our Global Tree Initiative community has celebrated this day by reflecting on the importance of pulses, while also sharing some delicious recipes. In case you missed these, you can visit these posts:

Food for Thought blog, February 2024 
Food for Thought blog, February 2023
Food for Thought blog, February 2022
Why we should eat pulses more often 

In celebration of this day, we will look at the wonders of pulses again, and explore the numerous benefits they offer.

World Pulses Day: Small Seeds, Big Impact

Pulses are the dry seeds of legume plants. Common examples include lentils, chickpeas, dry beans, and peas – the type of foods we would generally have in our homes. They grow in pods and are harvested when dry. Pulses are eaten in many countries and are part of traditional dishes around the world!

From Indian dal to Mexican frijoles negros, from Middle Eastern hummus to popular African Red Red stews, pulses bring color, flavor, and tradition to our plates.

Hummus made by our partner, Kind Dish

One wonderful thing about pulses is their variety. There are many different types, shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are small and red, like red lentils. Others are large and white, like butter beans. Chickpeas are round and golden. Black beans are shiny and dark. Because of this variety, pulses can be used in many ways. Here are a few examples:

In soups and stews (see recipe here)
In salads
In spreads like hummus (see recipe here)
In patties and plant-based burgers (see recipe here)
Ground into flour for baking

They can be soft and creamy or firm and hearty. This makes them suitable for many different recipes and food cultures.

Pulses are also known as a healthy food choice. They are rich in plant-based protein and contain important nutrients such as fiber, iron, and other minerals. Fiber helps our digestion and supports gut health, while protein helps build and repair our bodies.

Unlike many processed foods, pulses are natural and simple. They do not need complex processing before reaching our kitchens. Adding pulses to meals can help people enjoy balanced and nourishing diets. For many communities around the world, pulses are an affordable, delicious, and reliable source of nutrition.

*Pulses from around the world

Celebrating World Pulses Day is not only about food. It is also an opportunity to focus on our environment.

Pulses are special plants because they can fix nitrogen in the soil. This means they help improve soil quality naturally. Farmers often grow pulses as part of crop rotation systems. When pulses grow, they help make the soil healthier for future crops. This can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, while the healthier soil also supports stronger farming systems over time.

In addition, producing plant-based foods like pulses generally requires less land and water compared to many animal-based foods. Choosing more plant-based meals, including pulses, can help reduce pressure on forests and natural ecosystems.

Considering the global well-being and happiness of all living beings, this connection is important! When we protect forests and plant trees, we also think about how our food systems affect the planet. Eating more plant-based foods, such as pulses, is one way to support a more sustainable future.

Therefore, this World Pulses Day reminds us that small choices can make a big difference. A simple bowl of lentil soup or a serving of beans is more than just a meal. It connects us to farmers, to cultural traditions, and to the health of our planet.

By including more pulses in our diets, we can support and enjoy diverse and delicious meals, good nutrition, healthier soils, and more sustainable food systems – just to name a few! See, these small seeds truly have a big impact.

If you are looking for delicious recipes where pulses are used, please check our our partner, Kind Dish, on Facebook and Instragram.

Have you baked or cooked anything special for World Pulses Day? If so, please tell us about it! We would love to hear your story, and we can share your recipe with our global comminuty!

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Image source:
* Pulses around the world 
Cover image: https://www.dwarakaorganic.com/5-types-of-pulses-must-include-in-your-diet/